Kaizen means "improvement" or "change for the better" in Japanese, and these Miyabi knives certainly embody these words in the quality and performance that each piece of cutlery delivers. The Kaizen 9.5 inch Gyutoh Chef's Knife is a strong, heavy, long knife with a broad, slightly curved Katana edge that resembles the samurai swords of history. Quick and swift, you will turn to this knife to perform the basic trio of cutting motions of circular-action, chopping, and rocking. The scalpel-like sharpness of this all-purpose chef's knife will thrill the professional chef and home cook when it is used for cutting vegetables and fruits, slicing and dicing fish and meats, or even turning herbs into fine ribbons for dishes as flavor or garnish. This Miyabi knife is perfectly balanced, light-weight, and versatile. The functional elegance of Miyabi knives are an investment in art, tradition, construction, design and style for the discriminating that always looks for the finest quality for their kitchens.

The lovely 64 layer Damascus flower patterned Miyabi knives are an artist's creation of banding and mottling that is individual to each knife. This type of steel has its origins in the swords of the Middle Ages, but was created in India. Damascus steel is noted for extreme hardness, durability, resistance to shattering, and fine honing qualities. Underneath the Damascus steel of these Miyabi knives lies core of Zwilling J.A. Henckels formula VG10 (CMV60) super steel of superior quality. These blades with the Rockwell hardness of 60, have a superior cutting edge retention, with maximized corrosion retention, and hardness. Taken together, the blade materials and fabrication are the premium choice for those that want the best.

The blade undergoes a unique Zwilling J.A. Henckels trademarked CRYODUR® 4-step hardening process that maximizes the properties of the steel used for these Miyabi knives. Hardening is completed in a state-of-the-art, vacuum-sealed furnace, then rapid quenching takes place to return the blade to room temperature in seconds. A cryogenic treatment process places the blade into -321 degrees Fahrenheit conditions to increase the resistance to corrosion. Double tempering boosts overall blade toughness. Miyabi knives express Zwilling J.A. Henckels commitment to high performance German manufacturing.

The Honbazuke method is uniquely a Japanese method of sharpening knives and swords. Each blade honed to the Katana edge with an angle of between 9.5 and 12 degrees per side by a skilled artisan. This specific acute angle results in phenomenal blade sharpness like a surgeon's scalpel. The Japanese geometry used makes knife accuracy that will prepares the thinnest sliced sushi fishes to complex vegetable carvings of birds or animals.

The "D shape" handle is constructed of black linen Micarta which is a thermosetting plastic composite impregnated with linen fibers. This high-pressure resin laminate has a wood-like visual appearance and hand-feel. Micarta knife handles are incredibly durable, and resist becoming slick during use, even while cutting the slickest or wettest of foods. This Micarta synthetic material provides hygienic and food-safe qualities that are necessary in well-kept kitchens.

Miyabi knives are a realization of the joint efforts of Zwilling J.A. Henckels with Chef Rokusaburo Michiba, the first Japanese Iron Chef on the television series "Iron Chef." His philosophy, "there is no borders to ingredients," continues to bear testimony in this cooperative combination. Miyabi knives are a synthesis of the traditions and craftsmanship of Japanese sword makers with the precise engineering and manufacturing of German knives. Miyabi is characterized by traditional Japanese blade designs that possess exceptional sharpness with the sophisticated "D shape" comfort handle. Each collection of Miyabi kitchen knives is an expression of the refined beauty, finesse, and distinction that defines Japanese culture.

Care & Use of Miyabi Knives:

Care important to avoid corrosion and damage

Hand-wash only under running water with tiny amount of detergent

Dry knife thoroughly

Do not allow to remain wet or dirty for long periods

Wrap in newspaper and store in dry place if knife not used for an extended period

Follow manufacturer directions to increase life span of knife

Do not force cutting action

Do not use on frozen or hard food

Do not use to cut hard-shell crustaceans

Do not twist blade or use to pry

Always use appropriate cutting surfaces, no glass or ceramics

To resharpen, use professional sharpening stones

Sharpen first with coarse grit stone and follow with fine finishing stone

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Reviews: 1Average Customer Review is 5:

5

Amazzzzzing!! Review by ChefD

MOST AMAZING KNIFE IN THE WORLD. Razor sharp!! Paired with the Henkel diamond steel and it will STAY razor sharp for ever. I'm a chef and it's the best knife I've owned. Balance, handle, & blade are perfect. (Posted on 4/23/16)